STATEN ISLAND, N.Y. -- In 1886, a rail spur was established from the east shore line of the Staten Island Rapid Transit Railway Company to South Beach.

Its developer, Erastus Wiman, intended to create the next Coney Island.

The area thrived! Seeking to escape the brutal heat of summer, inner city dwellers came out to enjoy the rides, attractions, hotels, beer gardens, and cool waters of this inviting locale.

In the early 1900s, Happyland opened at South Beach. Similar to Luna and Steeplechase Parks in Coney Island visitors came in droves.

Eventually, the popular Tirelli’s carousel would open in 1912.

In 1896, trolley service to Midland Beach was started and soon thousands of visitors were arriving daily.

A popular amusement park, hotels, a fishing pier, bathhouses, free movies, band concerts and, of course, the beautiful and refreshing waters of Midland Beach attracted a public yearning to cool off in the days before the common comfort of household air conditioning. 